This Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Bread is a delightful quick bread that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. Topped with a buttery crumble and finished with a sweet glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The moist and tender crumb, paired with the contrasting flavors, makes this bread a seasonal favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bread:

1 large egg
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup buttermilk
¼ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup diced fresh strawberries
1 cup diced fresh rhubarb

For the Crumble Topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, oil, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the diced strawberries and rhubarb.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and softened butter for the crumble topping. Mix with a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the batter in the loaf pan.
Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Remove from oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the bread is cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the bread before slicing and serving.

Nutrients

Per serving (based on 10 servings):

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 4g

The History of Strawberry Rhubarb Bread

Rhubarb, often considered a vegetable despite its fruit-like flavor, has been used in baking for centuries. The history of rhubarb in cooking can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, who prized it for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Over time, rhubarb spread across Europe, becoming a staple in many kitchens.

In North America, rhubarb became widely used in the early 19th century, particularly in the colder regions where it thrived. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the combination of rhubarb with strawberries gained popularity. The pairing of rhubarb with strawberries is a classic in pies and tarts, as the tartness of the rhubarb balances out the sweetness of the strawberries.

The idea of baking this combination into bread, however, is a more modern development. Strawberry rhubarb bread brings together the best of both fruits in a soft, comforting loaf that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Its rich texture, combined with a slight tang from the rhubarb and the subtle sweetness from the strawberries, creates a perfect balance that makes it a beloved seasonal treat.

Flavor Profile of Strawberry Rhubarb Bread

The flavor of Strawberry Rhubarb Bread is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart elements. Rhubarb itself is quite tart, often too sour to enjoy on its own, which is why it pairs so well with sweeter fruits like strawberries. When combined in the bread, the strawberries lend their natural sweetness, while the rhubarb provides a refreshing, tangy contrast. This balance is what makes strawberry rhubarb bread such a unique and exciting treat.

In addition to the fruit, the bread itself is rich and tender, with a moist crumb that holds together perfectly. The use of ingredients like butter, eggs, and sugar ensures that the bread is not only flavorful but also wonderfully soft and satisfying. A slight hint of vanilla and lemon zest may also be used in some recipes, enhancing the overall flavor complexity and adding depth to each bite.

If you choose to top the bread with a crumble topping or a glaze, as is often done, these additions bring an extra layer of sweetness and texture. The crumble, made from butter, sugar, and flour, offers a slight crunch, while the glaze, typically made with powdered sugar and lemon juice, adds a glossy finish and a subtle citrusy kick.

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Rhubarb Bread

While Strawberry Rhubarb Bread is undoubtedly a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits thanks to the ingredients involved. Although it should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, this bread does provide some key nutrients.

Strawberries: Rich in vitamin C, strawberries are a great source of antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and support the immune system. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy fruit choice that adds natural sweetness to the bread.
Rhubarb: Rhubarb is low in calories and high in fiber, which can aid in digestion and contribute to a feeling of fullness. It also provides small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and vitamin C.
Eggs: Eggs provide a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. They also contain vitamins like vitamin D, which supports immune function and bone health.
Butter and Oil: While butter and oil add richness and flavor to the bread, they also provide essential fatty acids. Opting for a balance of these fats can help you maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Flour: The primary ingredient in the bread, flour provides carbohydrates, which are the body’s main energy source. Choosing whole grain flour can increase the fiber content of the bread, making it a more filling option.

Although strawberry rhubarb bread contains some sugar and fats, which contribute to its calorie content, it’s important to remember that the fruit and the other ingredients also provide valuable nutrients. By enjoying a slice in moderation, you can savor the sweetness of the bread without overindulging.

How to Customize Strawberry Rhubarb Bread

One of the great things about Strawberry Rhubarb Bread is that it’s highly customizable. Whether you want to adjust the sweetness, add extra fruit, or try different flavor profiles, this recipe is flexible enough to suit a variety of preferences.

Substitute Different Fruits: While strawberries and rhubarb make a classic pairing, you can experiment with other fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries can be used in place of strawberries, or you can add them in combination with the strawberries for a mixed berry version of the bread. Adding small chunks of apples or pears can also provide a unique texture and flavor to the loaf.
Add Nuts: To add some crunch and texture, consider folding in some chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. These nuts not only add a satisfying bite but also provide additional healthy fats and protein.
Make it Healthier: If you’re looking to make the bread a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour or a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. You can also replace some or all of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adding a bit of ground flaxseed or chia seeds can boost the bread’s omega-3 fatty acid content.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. To make the bread dairy-free, use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk and substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegetable oil. To make it vegan, swap the egg for a flax egg or a chia egg, which can be made by combining one tablespoon of ground flax or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Rhubarb Bread

Strawberry rhubarb bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you make the most of this delicious treat:

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice of strawberry rhubarb bread with a hot beverage like tea or coffee. The mild sweetness of the bread complements the bitterness of coffee or the floral notes of tea, making it the perfect afternoon snack.
As a Breakfast Treat: Serve the bread alongside a dollop of yogurt or a smear of butter for a more substantial breakfast. It’s a great way to start the day with something sweet, yet not overly indulgent.
For a Dessert: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of fresh cream to elevate the bread as a dessert. The bread’s sweet and tart profile pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the ice cream.
Topped with Fresh Fruit: For a refreshing twist, top each slice with a handful of fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light glaze can also add a finishing touch.

Conclusion

Strawberry Rhubarb Bread is more than just a delicious treat—it’s a celebration of spring. The vibrant combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb creates a loaf that is both flavorful and satisfying. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed in many different ways, from a simple breakfast bread to a dessert worthy of any occasion.

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